Tyler Vander Waal Wins Wyoming QB Battle After Spring Practice

Redshirt freshman Tyler Vander Waal is the heir apparent to Josh Allen at quarterback for the Wyoming Cowboys for now.

Head coach Craig Bohl and his staff released their post-spring practice depth chart Wednesday, and the most anticipated positional announcement was the signal caller.

A lot of Cowboy fans have been waiting to see who would win the QB battle during the spring. The answer is Vander Waal. He is listed No. 1 on the depth chart with senior Nick Smith No. 2.

In a release from the University of Wyoming, head coach Craig Bohl stated it was close and not over.

“It was a lengthy evaluation, and I think that evaluation is going to continue to go on in the fall. However, we think it is important to let guys know where they stand. Both quarterbacks had a really good spring. Nick (Smith) has made progress and Tyler (Vander Waal) has, as well. That competition raised the bar for both of them. We looked at the total body of work throughout spring, and then we made this decision.”

Bohl went on to say, “I think it’s important that both quarterbacks know that there is going to be continuing evaluation in the fall. We’ve always had the opinion that it is counter-productive to say we’re going to play two quarterbacks, but I know there is going to be continuing competition.”

Another position that had a close competition was a cornerback. With junior Antonio Hull back from injury, the battle was for the spot on the other side of the field. Redshirt freshman C.J. Coldon was going head-to-head with fellow redshirt freshman Keyon Blankenbaker. Coldon got the nod after spring practice and is listed as No. 1 on the depth chart.

Coach Bohl pointed out that Wyoming plays three corners, so Blankenbaker will be in the mix, as they continue the competition in Fall Camp.

Along the offensive line, there’s been some movement. Redshirt freshman Keegan Cryder has taken over at center. Redshirt freshman Eric Abojei is listed as the co-starter with junior Gavin Rush at left guard. During spring practice Wyoming shifted personnel around on the line, most notably, moving last year’s starting center Logan Harris, a sophomore, to guard. Offensive line coach Scott Fuchs told KOWB during spring drills that he’s comfortable with nine players in the rotation up front.

There were no other major position surprises with the release of this depth chart. Coach Bohl had indicated earlier during spring practice that the running back competition would start over in the fall. Senior Nico Evans, junior Kellen Overstreet and sophomore Trey Woods, who all played last year, are listed as co-starters at the position.